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Indications ⬇

REMS

Contraind./Precautions ⬆ ⬇

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects ⬆ ⬇

Derm: rash

F and E: dehydration, electrolyte imbalances

GI: abdominal cramps, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting

GU: urine discoloration

Interactions ⬆ ⬇

Drug-drug:

Availability ⬆ ⬇

(Generic available)
  • Tablets: Docusate sodium 50 mg/sennosides 8.6 mgOTC

Route/Dosage ⬆ ⬇

  • PO (Adults and Children >12 yr): 2 tablets once daily at bedtime (max = 4 tablets twice daily).
  • PO (Children 6–12 yr): 1 tablet once daily at bedtime (max = 2 tablets twice daily).
  • PO (Children 2–6 yr): 1/2 tablet once daily at bedtime (max = 1 tablet twice daily).

US Brand Names ⬆ ⬇

Senna Plus, Senokot-S

Action ⬆ ⬇

  • Docusate: Promotes incorporation of water into stool, resulting in softer fecal mass. Senna: Active components of senna (sennosides) alter water and electrolyte transport in the large intestine, resulting in accumulation of water and increased peristalsis.
Therapeutic effects:
  • Softening and passage of stool.

Classifications ⬆ ⬇

Therapeutic Classification: laxatives

Pharmacologic Classification: stimulant laxatives, stool softeners

Pharmacokinetics ⬆ ⬇

Docusate

Absorption: Small amounts may be absorbed from the small intestine after oral administration.

Distribution: Unknown.

Metabolism/Excretion: Eliminated in bile.

Half-Life: Unknown.

Senna

Absorption: Minimally absorbed following oral administration.

Distribution: Unknown.

Metabolism/Excretion: Unknown.

Half-Life: Unknown.

Time/Action Profile ⬆ ⬇

(softening of stool)

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
PO6–12 hrunknownunknown

Patient/Family Teaching ⬆ ⬇

  • Explain purpose and side effects of medication. Advise patient to read Patient Information before starting therapy.
  • Advise patient that laxatives should be used only for short-term therapy. Long-term therapy may cause electrolyte imbalance and dependence.
  • Advise patient to notify health care professional of all Rx or OTC medications, vitamins, or herbal products being taken and to consult health care professional before taking other medications.
  • Encourage patient to use other forms of bowel regulation, such as ↑ dietary fiber, ↑ fluid intake , and ↑ mobility. Normal bowel habits are variable.
  • Instruct patients with cardiac disease to avoid straining during bowel movements .
  • Advise patient not to use laxatives when abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever is present.

Pronunciation ⬆

DOK-yoo-sate SOE-dee-um SEN-na